The paper, the first in the series to be published since the launch of the Scottish Government’s White Paper in November, will highlight the UK’s unique role in world affairs. It will discuss how the UK’s overseas network ensures the safety of Scottish people abroad, supports Scottish businesses and promotes shared values, such as democracy, human rights and the fight against poverty.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said:

At the start of a momentous year for Scotland, I look forward to coming to Glasgow this week for the launch of this paper. I believe that we are safer and stronger together, and that together we can do more good in the world.

The paper will look at the UK’s global diplomatic network. One of the most extensive, well-respected and influential in the world, it employs over 14,000 people in 267 Embassies, High Commissions and Consulates in 154 countries and 12 Overseas Territories.

It will look at how businesses based in Scotland can benefit directly from efforts to protect the UK’s economic interests – for example, defending Scotch whisky against counterfeits, discriminatory or excessive taxation, trade barriers and other restrictions.

The paper will note that Scottish businesses can draw on the help of UK Trade & Investment in 169 locations in over 100 markets worldwide, and from the British Council, which is represented in 110 countries. It will also discuss the consular support available to Scottish people as they travel overseas.

It will also look at the implications of independence in terms of an independent Scotland’s membership of international bodies such as the European Union and NATO.